The Los Angeles Lakers struggled to find their footing in 2023, despite the undeniable talent of Anthony Davis and LeBron James. While the Lakers are aggressively seeking another star this offseason, building a championship roster relies heavily on the supporting cast. In a key move today, the Lakers re-signed one of those crucial pieces: guard Max Christie, to a four-year contract.
Los Angeles Lakers Re-Sign Max Christie
Max Christie, initially set to become a restricted free agent, will stay with the Lakers. According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Christie has signed a four-year, $32 million contract. This deal secures the young guard at a reasonable price, potentially making it one of the league’s best value contracts if Christie continues to develop.
Although his stats from last season—4.2 points and 2.1 rebounds in just under 15 minutes per game over 61 games—may not stand out, reports suggest he could become a regular part of the rotation next year. New head coach JJ Redick will be seeking the optimal lineup to compete in the Western Conference, and Christie’s versatility and potential make him a valuable asset, especially in case of injuries. Despite the Lakers’ current win-now mode, retaining a young core bodes well for their future.
Can the Team Win Another Championship?
The buzz around the Lakers also centers on drafting Bronny James, marking the first time a father-son duo will play on the same team. However, the Lakers are still aiming to secure a third star. Klay Thompson has been a target, though many teams are vying for his talents. One challenge for the Lakers is their diminishing pool of draft picks and tradable players, meaning they might need a star willing to take a discount to join James and Davis.
With LeBron James on the roster, the Lakers always remain a team to watch. The dynamic duo of James and Davis can dominate any game, but questions linger about the rest of the roster. Nevertheless, counting the Lakers out in 2024 is never a safe bet, given their history of overcoming obstacles and making significant moves.